How permaculture cultivates a sustainable future for young women

Women play a pivotal role in the economic and social fabric of rural Kenyan communities. This is even more true in the agricultural part of Kenya where Neema is located because of women’s role in farming. 

As we acquired our own land to build our new campus, we started permaculture farming thanks to a grant from the Earth Allies Regenerative Network (EARN). Permaculture is a holistic approach to agriculture and community development that focuses on creating self-sustaining ecosystems. It aligns perfectly with the needs of rural Kenya, where food security, environmental conservation, and economic stability are vital.

Very few girls learn sustainable living practices, so we’re intentionally educating our students in permaculture. Empowering women helps them achieve significant improvements in productivity in the land they farm.*

Brenda says, "I like permaculture because it is teaching me how to plant different type of veggies without using fertilizer—instead, we use organic methods. I really enjoy harvesting fresh vegetables. My son Jayden likes sukuma wiki and whenever we prepare it, I always see a smile on his face which makes me happy." 

Young women at Neema are now learning how to cultivate diverse organic crops and gaining knowledge in soil conservation, water management, and waste recycling. These skills empower them to address the pressing challenge of food insecurity in their communities! 

Teaching both permaculture and tailoring encourages entrepreneurship. Girls can start their own small-scale businesses and diversify their source of income while increasing the nutritional value of their family’s diet.

Since starting our permaculture activities, our team planted more than 400 fruit trees and vegetables. So we have already been able to add more vegetables to the diet of our students and their children! 

While the grant from EARN is supporting us in this endeavor, it’s not enough to fully fund our permaculture work. But together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of these young girls and the communities they are transforming. Together, we are sowing the seeds of a sustainable and healthy future for these young women and their families. 

See our staff share about the permaculture progress so far at our new campus!